Companion Animals

Companion Dog Nutrition and Lifelong Welfare

Appropriate nutrition is foundational to dog health and welfare throughout life.

Key Facts

Obesity affects 40-50% of companion dogs in the UK
Obese dogs have shorter lifespans and higher rates of arthritis, diabetes, and cancer
Life-stage appropriate nutrition is important from puppyhood through senior years
Raw diets carry bacterial contamination risks to dogs and their owners

Welfare Considerations

Obese dogs experience the cumulative welfare consequences of excess weight — joint pain, exercise intolerance, respiratory compromise, and shorter lives. Nutrition is one of the most controllable factors in dog welfare, and most obesity results from owners not recognising a problem or understanding portion sizes. Evidence-based feeding guided by body condition scoring prevents the chronic suffering of weight-related disease.

What You Can Do

Learn to body condition score your dog and maintain a healthy weight
Feed measured portions using a calibrated measuring cup
Consult your vet before starting home-prepared or raw diets
Monitor weight at every veterinary visit and take corrective action early